Sitting here this moment, I will tell you that I am so thankful for His Presence.  You, know it is so tangible at times.  So thick…so thick that it can hold us up–our physical bodies, our emotional needs, and our broken hearts.  His Presence sustains us.

One of the heaviest burdens we bear is our children.  We feel such responsibility.  We are responsible for their physical needs being met, for pointing them to Christ, for encouraging their passions, for fostering a healthy relationship with them, for loving them, and certainly there are many more we could add.  But one thing that occurred to me this morning is that we are not responsible for their calling, their purpose.

As we look ahead to 2017 I would like to clarify a few things about the “callings” on our children’s lives:

• The purposes and callings of our children are not our responsibility.  I don’t know about you, but that sure relieved some pressure for me this morning.  “For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord…”  Jeremiah 29:11.  It’s not for us to research or demand.  It’s between the two of them.  He has a unique plan for each of them and He’s working His plan.  Our part is to teach them to listen for Him.  In my mind, His favorite game is hide and seek…He loves thrill and loves to be found.  Teach your kids to play along.
• Callings are not something that are “drummed up.”  Your calling, your spouse’s calling, your children’s callings are not something that you have to orchestrate.  Sure we need to have a good work ethic.  We need to set goals.  We need to operate in excellence in all things as a good testimony of the King.  But you can’t create your own calling or that of those you love.  He simply leads you into it.  Whatever His calling is for them, He is there. The precious feet of the Dream Giver firmly planted in the soil of their inheritance, leading them there.  The key is to see Him and follow.  Simple.
• Callings aren’t to be compared.  As a parent, it is sure easy to see other young people and either compare our children to them or try and discount or diminish their accomplishments to make our children feel better (or us feel better).  Fact is, the callings of others are to be celebrated because their greatness does not diminish the callings of our loved ones.  Peter asked the Lord about John’s calling saying, “What about him?”  Jesus responded, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow Me” (John 21:22).  He’s not forgotten our young ones.  He has called them to something great, regardless of what their peers are called to.

I love Him and I love you.  Asking Him to begin to reveal His calling and purposes for your family.  Chase Him.  His feet are planted on your land.  Join Him.

Blessings,